Solving Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Surgery

drjohn

What is carpal tunnel syndrome and what causes it? What are the classic symptoms of numbness and tingling in the hand? When do conservative treatments fail and surgery becomes the best option? What is the simple release procedure like? Should I see an orthopedic surgeon, a plastic surgeon, or a neurologist? Is this typically an in-patient or out-patient hospital procedure? What is the cost, and what is the guidance for regaining hand strength post-surgery?

drrahul

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hand and fingers. It is often caused by repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, pregnancy, obesity, diabetes, or inflammatory conditions. Conservative treatments like splints, medications, and activity modifications are tried first, but surgery becomes necessary if symptoms persist or worsen, particularly with muscle weakness. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure and can be done via open or endoscopic techniques, typically as an outpatient procedure. Orthopedic or plastic surgeons specializing in hand surgery perform the operation. Costs vary from $1,681 to $8,360, and recovery involves wrist elevation, pain management, and hand exercises or therapy to restore strength and flexibility, with gradual improvement over several months.

dranil

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, often due to repetitive hand movements, wrist anatomy, or conditions like pregnancy and diabetes. Classic symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers. Conservative treatments like wrist splints, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections are tried first. Surgery is recommended when these fail or nerve damage worsens. The simple carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the ligament pressing on the nerve to relieve pressure, typically done as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia. Orthopedic surgeons, plastic surgeons, or neurologists experienced in nerve and hand conditions can perform the surgery. Costs vary by location and hospital but are generally affordable. Post-surgery, physical therapy focuses on gradually regaining hand strength and flexibility to restore function fully.